Volunteer Child Protection / Disclosure of Concerns Guidelines

What to do if a young person or adult shares concerns with you:

Be aware of SSG data protection policy, procedure and any guidelines.
Make sure you know the designated person to go to for advice and support if you have any concerns. This person will also be aware of what procedures to carry out.
Do not make promises about confidentiality that you cannot keep and always be open about your role in letting others know if you feel the young person is in danger.
Give the young person space, time and your individual attention to tell their story.
Do not make judgements about whether the young person is telling the truth.
Do not make comments about what you have been told, the young person does not need to know what you think but does need your support.
Do not ask the young person to repeat the story to other colleagues who you feel have to know because of their role.
If you are concerned always seek support and advice, and let the young person know that you will be speaking to the designated person in order to help them further.
Be aware that not all young people will tell you they are being abused or are upset about something, be prepared to ask them how they are if you are worried about them
If you are worried or concerned regarding the welfare of a child (i.e. neglect, injury etc) don't keep it to yourself, check it out by following the above guidelines.

Referral Procedure

Remember that you don't have to deal with this on your own. You should discuss this with the Nominated Child Protection Officer - See Separate referral document.

You should not discuss the disclosure with anyone else other than the designated persons
You should clearly document the nature of the disclosure, write what was said, and by whom, how things progressed, and any other factual details you feel relevant. The time and date of the disclosure should also be noted and the conversation recorded in the young person's own words. There is a standard Child Abuse Report Form which you can use - they will be kept by the Child Protection Officer.
Ensure the records are stored securely.
You should try to involve the young person who has made the disclosure, by explaining what is happening and who you are speaking to and why.
Do not make judgements or assessments, but give clear information regarding the young person what they have said, and the reasons for the concerns, the appropriate action will then be taken by the designated persons.

Useful Links:

Volunteer Child Protection / Disclosure of Concerns Guidelines

Referral Procedure